Why locally made aircrete blocks make sense

Building Products Index Ltd Blocks, Concrete Leave a Comment

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Buying British should be a strong ethical choice as UK factories are some of the safest in the world.

For decades, the UK has led the way in placing worker welfare at the centre of its manufacturing sector. Long before ethical sourcing became a global concern, the UK had already established rigorous safety standards and clear accountability. That legacy continues today, making locally manufactured products a responsible and reliable choice.

A key turning point came with the introduction of the Health and Safety at Work Act in 1974. At the time this was a milestone in legislation to protect the safety of workers. Rather than relying on a mix of industry-specific rules, the Act created a broad, adaptable framework that put responsibility firmly on employers to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees.

Supported by an independent regulator (now part of the Health and Safety Executive) this single piece of legislation paved the way for modern Health and Safety management across the manufacturing sector.

Over the years, additional regulations have been added, addressing areas such as machinery standards, manual handling and chemical safety. The result is a continuing decrease in the incidence of work-related accidents in UK factories.

Although many countries have since followed suit, comparative data shows the UK remains ahead of the curve: 90% of UK workplaces routinely carry out health and safety and risk assessments, significantly higher than the European average of 77%.

When viewed globally, the contrast becomes even clearer. Accident rates in UK manufacturing are consistently among the lowest in the world, lower than many European nations and well below those recorded in countries with sizeable industrial sectors, including the United States.

While no factory can ever eliminate risk entirely, the UK’s combination of strong legislation and deeply embedded safety culture delivers a level of protection that few regions can match.

For anyone sourcing building materials, worker welfare should be part of the decision-making process. In complex international supply chains, it can be difficult to understand the conditions under which products are made. Choosing UK-manufactured materials removes that uncertainty. For housebuilders, this means supporting both the domestic economy and a manufacturing sector that takes its duty of care seriously.

This is one of the reasons H+H continues to invest in its UK production facilities. H+H Celcon Blocks used in British housebuilding are manufactured domestically at its site in Kent and two plants in East Yorkshire. Buying locally made aircrete not only supports regional employment but also ensures that the blocks used on projects are produced within one of the safest manufacturing environments in the world.

Keeping workers safe isn’t just an internal responsibility for employers; it’s an ethical choice for customers too. By selecting British-made products, housebuilders can help uphold the highest standards of safety and contribute to a supply chain that values people as much as performance.

To find out more about H+H, visit hhcelcon.co.uk

Sources:
HSE comparative statistics – https://www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/european/
International Labour Organization – https://ilostat.ilo.org/topics/safety-and-health-at-work/

Safetell Achieves Prestigious Constructionline Gold Membership

Building Products Index Ltd doors, Security, Security screens Leave a Comment

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Leading security specialist Safetell Ltd has achieved Constructionline Gold Membership, a significant achievement for the company, which has been keeping people, property and assets safe for over 35 years.

The recognition, awarded following a lengthy assessment process, demonstrates Safetell’s adherence to the highest standards in health and safety, environmental management, quality assurance, and social responsibility.

“We’re incredibly proud to have been awarded the gold membership,” said

Christopher Valentino, Strategic Business Manager.  “It’s a true reflection of the professionalism, hard work, and dedication of our team. This accreditation gives our clients even greater confidence in our ability to deliver secure, compliant solutions across every project.”

Founded over 35 years ago, Safetell has built a reputation as one of the UK’s most trusted providers of security and access control solutions. The company provides bespoke solutions with an aim of protecting people, property, and assets across the public, commercial and retail sector. The company also provide automatic door servicing.

“Our goal has always been to go above and beyond industry expectations,” Christopher continued. “Achieving Gold Membership allows us to set the standard in every project we deliver.”

The Gold Membership marks a defining moment in Safetell’s long-term development. It not only opens access to a wider range of national frameworks and high-value contracts but also supports the company’s ambitions to expand its reach and deliver even more bespoke, technology-led security solutions.

Christopher concluded:
“Achieving this recognition is a proud moment for everyone at Safetell. It validates the trust our clients have in us and highlights our dedication to providing a quality service. We’re proud of the whole team who has worked hard to make this happen.”

“This milestone isn’t just a reflection of where we are now, it’s a foundation for the future as we look to expand our reach and take on more projects. The Gold Membership strengthens our position in the industry and sets the stage for the next chapter of Safetell’s growth.”

For more information about Safetell and its range of security solutions, visit www.safetell.co.uk.

NEW EUROCELL CPD HELPS YOU SOLVE PART L VS PART O CONFLICTS

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, PVC-U, PVC-U, Windows Leave a Comment

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Eurocell has launched two essential CPD courses designed to help fenestration and construction professionals stay ahead of evolving building regulations and overcome common compliance conflicts.

The UK’s leading manufacturer, distributor, and recycler of PVC-U building products has released Compliance with Design: Part L vs Part O and Elevating Design: Fenestration Solutions for Regulatory Compliance. The courses offer architects, specifiers, fabricators and builders, practical solutions for meeting the latest requirements in energy efficiency, overheating prevention, and fenestration design.

Compliance with Design: Part L vs Part O focuses on the balance between energy efficiency and preventing overheating. It explains how professionals can meet the requirements of both Approved Documents L and O by managing heat loss, reducing energy demand, and selecting the right glazing solutions for optimal comfort.

Elevating Design: Fenestration Solutions for Regulatory Compliance offers a comprehensive guide to overcoming the challenges of energy performance, solar gain control, and safety standards. This CPD explores how to select the best materials, glazing, and window configurations to meet regulatory demands while balancing solar gain control, ventilation, and design goals.

“We’re committed to helping fenestration professionals navigate the increasingly complex world of building regulations,” said Arron Crisp, Technical Specification Manager at Eurocell.

“For example, the conflict between Approved Document L’s energy efficiency targets and the overheating concerns in Document O is a common challenge. Maximising window size for daylight can often increase solar gain, undermining the thermal performance required by Document L. It’s a delicate balance and that’s where our CPDs come in.

“We’ve designed these CPDs to tackle challenges like this head-on, providing professionals with practical, actionable solutions to meet the toughest regulatory standards. Our goal is to help the industry create high-performance, energy-efficient designs that don’t compromise on comfort or sustainability.”

Eurocell’s courses can be taken online, in-person or on demand and provide forward thinking solutions for some of the industries most common challenges with building regulations.

For more information on the courses, or to stay ahead in compliance and design – sign up for Eurocell’s CPDs here: https://www.eurocell.co.uk/cpd.

Double Award Win Celebrates excellence in UK structural waterproofing

Building Products Index Ltd Membranes, Waterproof Membranes, waterproofing Leave a Comment

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Delta Membrane Systems Limited was honoured with the ‘Sustainability’ and ‘The All Star’ Awards at The Property Care Association, Best Practice Awards ceremony this year.  This double win follows our double win in 2024.

We are pleased to announce our success at the Property Care Association Best Practice Awards, where we have received two prestigious awards!!

During a fantastic evening at the iconic Manchester United Football Club, Old Trafford, which brought together our industry’s top professionals, we were delighted to take home a winners trophy for the ‘Sustainability Award’, and ‘The All Star’, a remarkable triumph for everyone involved. These awards acknowledge the hard work, passion, and dedication of the Delta team.

Sustainability – Winner

Delta had entered their pioneering “HLA Plus”.  Delta’s HLA Plus is an advanced high-water level alarm offering real-time remote monitoring and notifications through the Delta Pumps App. The app features a user-friendly dashboard and numerous capabilities to safeguard pumping stations, ensuring continuous monitoring without subscription fees. The HLA Plus connects seamlessly to any new or existing system, providing both proactive and preventive functions. This smart technology is invaluable for property owners, facilities managers, service engineers, and waterproofing contractors.

The All Star – Winner

Delta nominated their Marketing and Communications Manager, Rachel Munro.  Rachel, brings a unique skill set to the industry, showcasing a bold commitment to innovation and excellence.  While construction roles are typically associated with on-site work, the industry’s success significantly relies on behind-the-scenes efforts.  Rachel excels in these areas, and she is also a prominent advocate for women in the waterproofing industry.

All winners, finalists, images & videos can be found here – https://www.property-care.org/events/2025-property-care-awards/

Commenting on the achievement, Delta MD, Kevin Dodds, said: “Delta’s commitment to innovation continues with the Delta HLA Plus, exemplifying our dedication to providing new and unique solutions.”

“The Property Care Association, Best Practice Awards are among the most prestigious in the UK. Winning these two awards demonstrates the exceptional work by our team at Delta Membrane Systems Limited.

“At Delta, we consistently strive to uphold integrity in all aspects of our business. We are committed to environmental stewardship and carefully manage our plant operations to ensure sustainable practices.”

“The introduction of new products holds significant importance, not only for the industry but also for Delta.”

He continued “We’re so proud of our achievements and in the competitive structural waterproofing market it is a challenge to stand out from the crowd – we have proved our ability to do just that!”.

“Congratulations to all, and let’s strive for continued success next year.”

How Clark-Drain’s Modular Access Chambers are meeting the evolving demands of UK infrastructure

Building Products Index Ltd Access Chambers Leave a Comment

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Clark-Drain has expanded its portfolio of British-made access and drainage products with a modular, heavy-duty chamber range designed to meet the increasing performance demands of modern infrastructure projects. The chambers – manufactured in the East of England from recycled polypropylene – combine bespoke construction with high load-bearing strength, rapid installation, and compliance with stringent defence, civils and utilities specifications.

Modular by design, engineered for specification

Developed from decades of customer insight and application expertise, Clark-Drain’s chamber range is built to suit the exact requirements of each project. The system can be configured to multiple sizes and assembled to meet sector-specific standards, including Ministry of Defence JSP604, Ministry of Justice specifications, and a wide range of civils infrastructure criteria.

The chambers support an equally wide variety of applications: defence and secure data cabling, fibre and broadband networks, water utility assets such as pumps and valves, motorway communications infrastructure, traffic signalling, street lighting, and dockyard installations.

To accommodate this breadth of use, the units can be supplied with a choice of pre-determined duct entry patterns – including plain-sided options for bespoke drilling – as well as flat panel formats, multiple clear opening sizes, and Mandrel test-friendly bellmouths where required.

Complete systems delivered ready for installation

One of the most significant efficiencies comes from Clark-Drain’s decision to supply the chambers as fully assembled systems, aligning with the Government’s Construction Playbook. By removing the need to source and assemble components on site, contractors can avoid common delays, reduce labour requirements, and minimise hidden or unexpected costs.

Each unit can be supplied complete with sump, grill and anchor plate, with optional cable furniture and bolt-on steps. This approach means systems arrive ready to be

installed immediately—moving from delivery to in-ground faster than traditional multi-supplier arrangements.

British manufacturing, proven strength

Clark-Drain proudly manufactures 88% of its product range in the UK, with these chambers carrying the official Made in Britain mark. Produced using recycled polypropylene that can be recycled again at end of life, the units offer a sustainable alternative to heavier traditional materials.

Despite their lighter weight, the chambers deliver exceptional performance. The lattice-structured polypropylene shells provide strength sufficient to withstand up to E600 wheel loads, making them suitable for heavy-duty and high-traffic environments. Security covers and padlock options further safeguard against unauthorised access.

Sustainable, portable and built for the future

The choice of recycled polypropylene not only reduces environmental impact but also provides practical benefits. The material is lighter and easier to transport, reducing installation effort and overall project costs while contributing to carbon-saving efforts across the construction sector.

From manufacture through disposal, the chamber system reflects an end-to-end sustainable approach, complementing the growing environmental ambitions of clients and contractors alike.

A versatile heavy-duty solution for modern networks

Clark-Drain’s modular access chamber range offers a combination rarely found in a single system: heavy-duty performance, bespoke configuration, rapid installation, and sustainability. Whether used for fibre networks, utilities, defence infrastructure or highways applications, the chambers provide a cost-effective, future-ready solution designed around the needs of the project.

For more information, visit: www.clark-drain.com/search?q=d400
For technical advice on the full Clark-Drain range, call 01733 765317 or email sales@clark-drain.com

Wavin’s HepvO Self Sealing Waste Valve

Building Products Index Ltd Pipes, Plastic piping, push fit fittings Leave a Comment

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For decades, conventional water traps (P-traps and U-bends) have been the standard way to prevent foul sewer gases from entering living spaces. However, they come with a set of inherent problems – over time the water seal can evaporate, siphon off, leak or be displaced by movement, which compromises the seal and allows unpleasant odours back into the building.

That’s where HepvO comes in. Rather than relying on standing water to create the seal, the HepvO Self Sealing Waste Valves uses a dry-seal, self-sealing elastomeric membrane to block sewer gases.

How HepvO Works:

  • When wastewater flows through – water pressure pushes the membrane open, allowing the waste to discharge
  • Once the flow stops and pressure returns to normal, the membrane automatically closes again, forming an airtight seal between the drainage system and living space
  • Because there’s no stagnant water sitting in a trap, there’s no risk of evaporation, siphonage or displacement, so the seal remains reliable over long periods

Key Benefits for Installers and End-Users

Reliable odour protection and hygiene

Since the valve doesn’t depend on water, it cannot dry out or lose its seal. It permenately prevents sewer gases, which can carry harmful bacteria/viruses, from re-entering the property. Because there’s no water to stagnate, there’s less chance of bacterial growth or foul smells associated with standard traps.

Flexible and space-saving installation

He HepvO’s valve’s in-line design and compact form factor makes it ideal for tight or awkward spaces. It can be installed vertically or horizontally depending on the orientation.

Versatility – not just for basins and sinks  

HepvO isn’t limited to traditional sanitary fixtures. It’s also suitable for condensate drainage from boilers, air-conditioning units, or other household systems – where the flow might be intermittent or minimal.

The HepvO’s Self Sealing Waste Valve represents a significant evolution in plumbing design. By replacing the traditional water trap with a self-sealing membrane, HepvO removes many of the limitations of conventional traps – no more worries about drying out, siphonage, leaks or displacement.

Given the growing importance of hygiene, ventilation, and space saving solutions in modern building design – especially in apartments, retrofit bathrooms, and compact living – HepvO offers a compelling alternative to age-old traps.

For more information visit – Wavin Osma HepᵥO Self Sealing Waste Valve – System Features

Blue Roofs – Integration with biosolar, hard landscaping, green roofs

Building Products Index Ltd Building Drainage, Drainage, Green Roofing Leave a Comment

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Off-membrane blue roof systems are being recognised as a vital part of the UK’s sustainable future, but what does true integration mean for designers, specifiers and contractors❓

With ACO’s method, off-membrane storage integration means modular tanks positioned above the roof build-up keep rainwater storage separate from the waterproofing layer, protecting the membrane while enabling controlled irrigation, hard landscaping and biosolar interfaces 💧

Keeping the storage away from the waterproof layer stops the repeated wetting and drying that concentrates moisture at joints and roof openings. Reducing that strain on the waterproofing helps preserve manufacturer warranties and avoids the extensive work a membrane replacement would otherwise require on multi-use roofs 👷

For inverted and hard-landscaped roofs, keeping stored water off the insulation also removes the need for heavy ballast and the risk of insulation lifting 👍

Passive irrigation using wicking mats connected to the stored water delivers moisture to planting soil and planters in paved areas without surface ponding or mechanical sprinklers. The result is reliable plant establishment, biosolar edge planting and lower energy and maintenance needs — crucial where access and solar-panel maintenance corridors must be kept clear 🌞

Early, joined-up design is essential: consider tank locations, wicking layout and outlet positions during concept stages to meet the London Plan Urban Greening Factor and avoid late-stage structural clashes. ACO’s method works with wicking networks and PV layouts, offers simpler installation than ballast systems, and delivers predictable weights on the roof, making multifunctional roofscapes coherent, maintainable and compliant ✅

Explore blue roofs in greater detail with our free guide, available here ⬇️

https://www.aco.co.uk/blue-green-roofs

The Glasdon Range of Shelters: Durable, Low Maintenance Solutions

Building Products Index Ltd shelters Leave a Comment

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From external smoking & waiting shelters, to corral cycle compounds or multi-purpose canopies, the Glasdon selection of prefab shelters provides a solution for almost any application.

Aero™ Cycle Shelter Range

Aero Cycle Shelters provide a sheltered and contemporary storage space for bicycles and scooters, allowing cyclists to store their equipment in a safe, designated spot. Not only does this prevent damage to bicycles from bad weather, but it also boosts participation in active travel by offering purpose-built cycling infrastructure.

The shelter’s curved design means rain and snow slide off the roof easily, while its strong, corrosion-resistant aluminium roof skeleton makes it extremely durable, able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Toughened PETG glazing keeps bikes visible for security purposes and is strong enough to withstand bangs, knocks and significant abuse.

Available as either a standalone cycle shelter (with storage capacity for 10 bicycles) or a corral cycle compound (with storage capacity for 20 bicycles), Aero cycle shelters are well suited for schools, workplaces, public buildings, transport hubs, and apartment blocks.

Heritage & Carleton™ Shelters

Ideal for sheltered waiting areas such as bus stops and break areas, smoking/vaping shelters, or pay-and-display shelters, our range of all-weather shelters are low maintenance and aesthetically pleasing.

The Heritage shelter is specially designed to coordinate with traditional street furniture and blend in perfectly with townships, suburbs, and city streets. Manufactured from low maintenance materials and available in 7 standard layouts, Heritage provides a traditional appeal to suit any location.

The Carleton Shelter is ideal for urban centres, airports, and major transport hubs, with a modern, streamlined design for high-traffic environments. Its transparent wall panels can be specified in toughened glass, thermoplastic glazing, or blank GRP, allowing for a tailored approach to each site. With 9 standard layouts (up to 3 bays in length), and a flat roof for sites with restricted access, Carleton Shelters can be configured to fit a variety of spaces and applications.

Modus™ Shelter Range  

Modus Multi-Purpose Shelters offer a cost-effective shelter solution that is ideal for use as a small safety point or covering for personnel or equipment.

Available in two sizes (Modus 770 and Modus 1280 models), these shelters create a small, highly visible alcove that is suited for a variety of functions, such as creating a fire safety or first aid point, or placing a pay and display facility inside.

The double-skinned roof and environmentally friendly Ecoboard™ panels on three sides are produced using 100% recycled post-consumer waste (mixed plastics). The low-maintenance frame extrusion and spigot legs contain a mix of aluminium and steel.

Delivered fully assembled as standard, the Modus shelter offers an excellent solution for when cost and time are factors on site.

Curious about our range of shelters? Visit our website to discover our full range.

Safe, compliant roof access is non-negotiable in modern building design.

Building Products Index Ltd Access Hatches, Rooflights Leave a Comment

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Whether for maintaining solar panels, servicing rooftop building services plant, or providing access to roof terraces and gardens, every project must ensure that occupants and maintenance teams can reach the roof safely and with ease. Access hatches deliver a permanent, compliant, and secure means of access from within the building – eliminating the risks and inconvenience of external ladders or scaffolding.

And while primarily a safety-critical feature, the right roof access solution can also enhance a building’s appearance. With modern flat glass and dome designs available, today’s systems combine robust performance with clean, contemporary aesthetics, ensuring safety never compromises style.

Rooflights & Skylights supply a comprehensive range of roof access hatches from leading UK manufacturers, helping specifiers match the right product to every application – from residential maintenance to high-traffic commercial use.

For occasional residential access, the Coxdome Trade Range Rooftop Access Rooflight provides a practical and economical solution for routine maintenance.

For more frequent access, such as entry to roof terraces and roof gardens or retrofit installations, options include:

For commercial applications, the Thermadome Commercial Access Hatch offers a durable aluminium construction and high-performance insulation – ideal for plant maintenance and service access.

Visit the Rooflights and Skylights website available from Rooflights & Skylights – your trusted partner for daylighting and roof access solutions.

H+H celebrates British manufacturing and the value of local supply

Building Products Index Ltd Blocks, Concrete Leave a Comment

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H+H has always backed British manufacturing – and for housebuilders, the reasons are more practical than patriotic.

With over 75 years of investment in UK manufacturing, H+H has long believed in the value of building locally. Now, as a proud member of Made in Britain, the company is celebrating that commitment – and highlighting why British-made materials make business sense for housebuilders.

In recent years, the vulnerability of international supply chains has been exposed. Global events – from the pandemic to political instability – have shown how quickly overseas logistics can falter, affecting availability, quality and cost certainty. For a sector that depends on reliable delivery and consistent standards, short supply chains are not just a preference but a necessity.

Fewer surprises
When products are manufactured close to site, there’s less risk of disruption. Shorter supply chains mean fewer links in the chain – and fewer opportunities for delay. Local manufacturing brings peace of mind that materials will arrive when needed, supporting smoother build programmes.

Closer communication
Working with UK suppliers allows housebuilders to build stronger relationships with their partners. At H+H, direct communication with customers means any issues can be resolved quickly and transparently, ensuring every project runs more efficiently.

Greater agility
Construction schedules are rarely linear. Weather, demand and regulatory changes can all affect build rates. With factories based in the UK, H+H can respond faster to fluctuating site needs – something international suppliers simply can’t match.

Supporting local skills
Choosing UK-made materials helps sustain employment and apprenticeships within the construction industry. Through initiatives like H+H’s apprenticeship training scheme, the company is investing in the next generation of skilled workers, ensuring the knowledge and experience that underpin quality British manufacturing continues to thrive.

Trading with confidence
The UK’s manufacturing standards are among the most rigorous in the world – from quality control to health, safety and financial regulation. Housebuilders working with local manufacturers can be confident that products meet stringent performance and compliance requirements.

For H+H, joining Made in Britain is more than a badge of honour. It’s a recognition of the resilience, transparency and trust that come from producing high-quality building materials right here at home.

When housebuilders choose products made in the UK – like Celcon Blocks, manufactured at H+H’s plants across the country – they’re not just reducing risk. They’re supporting a supply chain that’s built to last.

To find out more about H+H visit: Visit the H+H website